Did you know that around 8.2 million people receive disabled-worker benefits from Social Security? If you are in the process of filing for a disability claim and are feeling overwhelmed, we understand, and we are here to help. Our guide below will share more about the disability claims application process and check the status of disability claims.
Read on to learn more to see if you are eligible for disability benefits.
Application Process
There are three ways to apply for disability benefits: in person, online, or by phone. First, you will have to gather all the documents and information in order to apply. On the Social Security Administration website, you can find the exact information you need to gather.
Then you will have to fill out all the information on the application and submit it. Once the application is received, the SSA will review everything to make sure the basic requirements for benefits are met. They will also make sure that you worked enough years in order to qualify.
All of your work activities are evaluated, and then the application is processed and forwarded to the Disability Determination Services office in the state that you live in. The final disability determination decision is made by your state agency.
Basic Requirements
When filing for disability benefits, you need to have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of a disability. You also need to have worked in jobs that were covered by Social Security.
Normally SSA will pay people that can’t work for a year or longer due to their disability. There is a waiting period of about 5 months even if you qualify.
Responses
It will take around three to six months to receive an initial decision on your application. You will receive a letter in the mail letting you know whether you qualify or not.
You can create an account on the SSA website to check the status of your application instead of waiting for a letter in the mail. For those that don’t have online access, you can call during the week to check your application status.
Appeal Process
If you are denied benefits but are fully convinced that this is inaccurate, then you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal request has to be done in writing within 60 days of receiving your decision notice.
We recommend speaking with an attorney before filing your appeal to ensure that your chances of winning the appeal are higher.
Ready to Apply and Then Check the Status of Disability Claims?
Now that you learned more about the application process for disability and checking the status of disability claims, you can enlist help from an attorney to help you navigate disability law in the court system.
If you found our article helpful, please keep browsing the rest of this section for our latest reads.